What is the primary goal of patient-centered care in nursing?

The primary goal of patient-centered care in nursing is to focus on the patient's unique needs and preferences. This approach recognizes that each patient is an individual with their own values, beliefs, and circumstances. By centering care around the patient, healthcare providers can create a more tailored and effective healthcare experience.

Patient-centered care emphasizes active collaboration between nurses and patients, allowing for shared decision-making and personalized care plans. This approach enhances patient satisfaction, improves health outcomes, and fosters a trusting relationship between patients and healthcare providers. It acknowledges that patients are not just passive recipients of care; rather, they play an essential role in their treatment journey.

In contrast, prioritizing nursing tasks over patient preferences, enforcing treatment protocols rigidly, and minimizing patient involvement all detract from the individualized approach that is fundamental to patient-centered care. Such attitudes can lead to feelings of disempowerment and dissatisfaction in patients, undermining the overall quality of care.